I'm wondering what is the preferred way to baste a quilt. I tried pinning for the first time and it's going very well. I hand quilt and I usually baste with thread but have always hated the time that takes. Are there pitfalls to using pins and how close should they be set?

Has anyone had trouble with some battings that "pill up" through the quilt top? I had that happen and I think it was Fairfield batting but now can't remember. I hand-quilt my quilts.Just bought some all-cotton batting and I'm worried this may happen again. Thanks!

I have a feeling I need a new rotary cutting mat. Both of mine are probably 15 years old and even with a new blade, my cutter isn't working well. The mats do have some grooves in them. When should they be replaced?